I broke another rudder pin today. Glad for that as Mission Bay is tame compared to Alameda (at least I hope Alameda has more wind and waves).

Has anyone moved to a better rudder pin than the stock supplied pin? I spoke to an engineer friend who suggested 17-4 PH stainless. Maybe move one size up? He said to have the new pin cut and drilled then heat hardened and that I would end up with titanium strength at a lower cost. Any other material engineer types have any other suggetions?

What would the cost be over titanium? Its not a large quantity of material so while dramatic I can't imagine the cost being that substantial. I don't know what titnium machines like either, if its more difficult that might add some challenges/cost.

Cost is not the primary concern here. He stated the the precipitation hardened stainless is easier to source and work with than titanium. I'm going down to the local airport machine shop tomorrow to check it all out. Then I need new bushings and may be gudgeons as the bushings went swimming and the gudgeons got tweeked. I guess I will be at Fast Lane Sailing tomorrow as well...

I have been using SS bolts from Boat US/West Marine for a long time; much cheaper than Hobie pins Need to get the long bolts (5/16? x 3-4"); cut the thread off, and drill them for a retainer pin, so if you figure your time they may not be cheaper in the end. They DO seem to hold up better, though. I broke at least two pins; have yet to break a bolt. I suspect pins are failing due to fatigue limits and not overall strength. Sailing with the rudders up in shallow water and backing down in a blown tack when the rudders slam over hard seem to be the main culprit. Try to avoid both